Chanel Medallion Tote: Complete Guide & Review. Still A Beloved Bag in 2023
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The Chanel Medallion is now a vintage, discontinued tote that still captures the hearts of many. Read our full Chanel Medallion tote review, including what fits inside, pros & cons and if it’s still worth buying in 2023!
If ever a bag defined the mid-2000s, it was the Chanel Medallion Tote. Spotted on celebrities like Paris Hilton and Lauren Conrad (of Laguna Beach and The Hills fame), this tote features classic Chanel quilting and a large CC motif.
To learn more about the design, pricing, and materials, make sure to keep reading this guide.
About the Chanel Medallion Tote
The Chanel Medallion Tote debuted around 2006 and owes its name to the large coin zipper pull (available in gold or silver).
It became an instant classic thanks to its beautiful quilting, understated design, and subtle CC motif.
Not only that, but it was a favorite amongst celebrities like Paris Hilton and Lauren Conrad of The Hills. In fact, Conrad was seen carrying the bag throughout the first season of the show.
More recently, Bella Hadid was spotted carrying it, suggesting that this bag has plenty of staying power.
The design of the Chanel Medallion Tote
Notable features of the Medallion Tote include:
- A large tonal CC motif on the front of the bag
- Classic Chanel quilting
- Medallion zipper pull
- A slim but spacious design
- Two large handles
There’s also a slip pocket on the back of the bag that’s large enough to hold a phone.
The interior is made of leather and features a slip pocket and a zippered pocket.
Medallion’s hardware comes in either gold or silver.
Chanel Medallion Tote Sizes
This style was only produced in one size. The dimensions are 12.5in x 10in x 6in (29cm x 25.5cm x 14 cm).
The handle drop measures 6.5in or 16.5 cm.
Chanel Medallion Tote Pricing
Because the Medallion Tote is discontinued, these bags are only available on the secondhand market.
Prices vary widely depending on the condition of the bag but range anywhere from $1,800 to $2,100 on Fashionphile.
When Was the Chanel Medallion Tote Discontinued?
Even though the Medallion Tote was very popular, it didn’t stick around for long. Chanel discontinued the style sometime between 2010 to 2013.
Unfortunately, it’s tough to be more exact than that because it’s unclear how long it takes Chanel to phase out leftover stock.
Still, buyers reported no longer seeing the tote in boutiques after 2013.
Chanel Medallion Tote Materials
Caviar leather is the most popular material for the Medallion tote. However, this style is also available in lambskin leather, patent leather, and velvet.
Read also: Chanel Leather Guide
Colors
Black and cream are the most popular colors for the Medallion tote. As a result, you’ll have no trouble finding one in these colors on the resale market.
That said, Chanel produced many colors of the Medallion Tote including pink, blue, yellow, and red. Be aware that these colors are much rarer, and sometimes much more expensive on the resale market.
What Fits Inside a Chanel Medallion Tote?
Thanks to its slim, yet spacious design, the Medallion Tote is a great everyday bag that will fit all of your essentials.
In addition to things like a wallet, phone, and charger, the Medallion can fit a 16-ounce water bottle, an umbrella, and even an iPad.
Pros and Cons of the Chanel Medallion Tote
Although this is a popular bag with a lot of fans, there are some downsides to be aware of. Keep reading to find out the pros and cons of the Chanel Medallion Tote.
Pros:
- Spacious interior
- Stylish design that’s stood the test of time
- Plenty available on the secondhand market
- Can be carried in hand, in the crook of the arm, or over the shoulder
- Caviar leather is easy to clean
- Smooth zipper closure
- Keeps its structure
Cons:
- The straps have a tendency to flop to the sides when not in use. This doesn’t mean they’re fragile or prone to damage, but may be aesthetically off-putting to some
- Medallions were made in Italy and France. According to owners, the French-made bags are of inferior quality
- No feet on the bottom of the bag to protect it. This could lead to damage on the corners
- Have to stretch the bag open to access things inside
- Prices have gone up in recent years
- Not many color options available on the secondhand market
- The medallion comes off easily and many bags are missing it as a result
- Can be tight to carry over the shoulder (especially with bulky winter clothing)
- Heavy, especially when filled
- Some people think they look dated
Is the Chanel Medallion Tote Worth Buying in 2023?
Despite some minor downsides, we think the Chanel Medallion Tote is a great buy if you’re looking for a classic everyday bag that will stand the test of time.
Some things we like most about this bag are its slim, spacious design and its subtle, yet instantly recognizable Chanel branding.
Plus, if the prices on the resale market are any indication, this is a bag that’s just as popular now as it was 15 years ago. Who knows, you might end up making money on this bag. That is if you ever decide to sell it (which we doubt).
Chanel Medallion Outfits & Inspiration
Where to Buy the Chanel Medallion Tote?
As mentioned before, the Chanel Medallion Tote is a discontinued style. Therefore, it’s only available on secondhand sites like Fashionphile, Farfetch, The Real Real, and Vestiaire Collective.
While all of these sites vet their sellers and provide authentication, Fashionphile is our personal favorite. Unlike other resale sites, Fashionphile accepts returns up to 30 days after purchase.
That means you have complete peace of mind when it comes to purchasing luxury items such as the Medallion Tote.
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